Scam calls are a common nuisance and can sometimes lead to serious consequences if not handled properly. Here are seven ways to protect yourself from scam calls on your mobile device:
- Caller ID Apps: Use caller ID apps that can help identify incoming calls and label them as potential scams. These apps can compare the incoming number with a database of known scam numbers and warn you accordingly.
- Do Not Call Registry: Register your number on your country’s official “Do Not Call” registry. This won’t completely stop scam calls, but it can help reduce the frequency of legitimate telemarketing calls.
- Screen Calls: Let unknown numbers go to voicemail. Legitimate callers will usually leave a message, while scammers often hang up if they’re sent to voicemail.
- Don’t Share Personal Information: Never share personal or financial information over the phone unless you are absolutely certain about the caller’s identity. Scammers often pose as legitimate institutions to gain access to your sensitive data.
- Verify Callers: If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from a company or organization, hang up and call back using the official number from their official website or a trusted source. This helps ensure you’re speaking to a legitimate representative.
- Use Call Blocking: Most smartphones have built-in call-blocking features. You can manually block specific numbers, or enable settings to only allow calls from your contacts or whitelist.
- Report Scams: If you receive a scam call, report it to relevant authorities. In the U.S., you can report scam calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) using their official website.
Bonus Tip:
- Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common scam tactics. Scammers often use similar approaches, such as posing as tech support, offering too-good-to-be-true deals, or pretending to be a government agency. Knowing these tactics can help you recognize and avoid potential scams.
Remember, scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, so staying vigilant and cautious is crucial. If a call feels suspicious, it’s better to be safe and cautious rather than risk falling victim to a scam.
